So then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better.1 Corinthians 7:38

Having stated his instructions on the giving of one’s virgin in marriage, Paul sums the thought up in today’s verse beginning with, “So then he who give her in marriage does well.” He has not erred in his actions nor sinned against God by them. He has given a wife to a husband and his virgin to a man for her care and protection. Even if this were during a time of “distress,” no wrongdoing has occurred.

Having said that, Paul then notes the contrast by saying, “but he who does not give her in marriage does better.” He cannot be speaking of “better” in a moral sense because if so, then the other chosen path would have been morally deficient. The better moral path should always be chosen. Instead, “better” must refer to the issue of the distress of the times. For the sake of the virgin, by withholding marriage it would be a better expedient for the care of her heart and any possible sadness which might result from the challenges which lay ahead.

Life application: If a path can be taken which avoids the pitfalls of heartache and sadness, it is certainly the better one to choose. Getting ourselves into trials and difficulties should naturally be avoided because we are then much more likely to have freedom to praise God instead of worrying about the trials which surround us.

Lord God, it’s hard to lose friends that I am close with as they move away for work, marriage, or some other reason, but at the same time they will have new adventures, meet new people, and will hopefully be blessed in the path they take. Above all, I would pray for those who have set out on a new trail that they would remember You as they go. Help them to keep their lives in focus concerning their need to pursue You first. And then Lord, bless them beyond their wildest imagination! Yes Lord, bless Your people. Amen.